Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Albuquerque, USA
- 4 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Watch daylight appear above the Rio Grande Valley during a sunrise hot-air balloon ride from Albuquerque, and see the first rays illuminate the rugged Sandia Mountains. Take in stunning aerial views and dip low enough to skim the Rio Grande, then rise back up above the desert landscape. Touch down after your flight, and celebrate with sparkling wine before returning to your launch site.
- Enjoy stunning views of the Rio Grande Valley and watch a colorful sunrise
- Learn about New Mexico’s natural history and hot-air ballooning from the expert pilot
- Have the option to help out the pilots during the inflation process for a more hands-on experience
- Celebrate the flight with a glass of sparkling wine and light breakfast after landing
What's Included
- Professional guide
- Scenic hot air balloon flight
- Champagne toast
- Light snacks after the flight
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- 5601 Eagle Rock Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113, USA
Please check in at our office location.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
1
Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon
4 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- Minimum age is 5 years
- Not recommended for participants with knee problems
- Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
- Flights can only be operated with safe winds, clear sky and no rain. In case of unsuitable weather conditions, you will be provided the option to take the tour on an alternative date or be refunded in full.
- Unable to fly anyone who is pregnant
- This is a shared basket flight, there will be anywhere from 10-16 total passengers in each basket
- Passengers 300lbs+ must purchase an additional space to ensure safety, comfort, and proper weight distribution during flight
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 6 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Great balloon ride. Anthony our pilot was professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. I went with my 80 year old dad and 10 year old son. The crew let my sone set up and takedown and pack up the balloon which was a highlight for him. Mimosas and snacks after the beautiful sunrise flight was the perfect ending to the morning. Highly recommend this experience.
Reviews
4.9
based on 1,459 reviews
Review summary
Last 12 months
48 reviews
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Travelers highlight the engaging balloon activities, including hands-on setup and smooth rides that create a memorable, anxiety-free experience. Guides and pilots receive consistent praise for their professionalism, clear communication, and extensive knowledge, which enrich the flight with informative explanations and a calming presence. The natural landscape viewing, especially during sunrise, is frequently noted for its stunning, peaceful vistas of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande, contributing to a unique and enjoyable adventure.
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It was amazing! Don't be afraid, just do it. So peaceful and beautiful. I'm 75, and I'm so glad my husband and I went. I had total confidence in our pilot. I would definitely go again!
Response from Host, Oct 2026
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We love hearing that you and your husband took the leap and enjoyed such a peaceful and beautiful adventure together. We’re especially happy to hear that you felt confident and comfortable with your pilot throughout the flight. It’s never too late for a new adventure, and we would love to welcome you both back for another unforgettable experience!
My daughter & I did this ride together. Truly amazing experience! Our pilot, Troy, a fourth generation balloonist, was extremely knowledgeable & shared a wealth of interesting info about ballooning. Views were incredible & flight unbelievably peaceful. Felt like floating. And the landing was so soft I barely realized we were on the ground! Don’t think twice, do it!!!
Response from Host, Oct 2026
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled to hear that you and your daughter had such an amazing adventure together. It’s wonderful to know that Troy’s knowledge and passion for ballooning made your flight even more memorable. We’re glad you enjoyed the incredible views, peaceful ride, and soft landing! Thank you for choosing Rainbow Ryders, and we hope to welcome you both back for another unforgettable flight!
Alfred made this experience wonderful! I can't say anything about other companies, but I am so glad we booked with Rainbow Ryders. Thank you Alfred!
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that Alfred helped make your experience so special. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with him! We’re so glad you chose Rainbow Ryders and hope to have the pleasure of flying with you again in the future.
We reserved a dawn flight on what turned out to be a rainy morning. I'm taking one star off because Rainbow Ryders didn't determine to cancel the flight until 6 am, when everyone had already arrived at the arranged meeting point. If they had cancelled at 5 or 5:15 and texted us, I could have slept in and saved on gas and the time it took to get to the meeting point. Fortunately they had openings the next day, when the weather was fine. Our pilot Mr. Salazar was very experienced and knowledgeable. The hour-long ride was smooth and the landing easy. I recommend RR and would fly with them again.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear that you had a smooth flight, enjoyed your time with Mr. Salazar, and would recommend Rainbow Ryders. We’re truly sorry for the inconvenience caused by the morning cancellation, and we understand how frustrating it can be to arrive at the meeting point before a cancellation is made. Our pilots carefully evaluate flight conditions both the evening before and again the morning of each flight, and these conditions can sometimes change overnight. If the forecast the evening before or even that morning does not indicate any dangerous conditions, we will proceed with the flight as planned, but if our pilots determine at the time of the flight that conditions are unsafe, we unfortunately must cancel for the safety of our passengers and crew. We greatly appreciate your understanding and hope to have the opportunity to fly with you again!
Great crew and well organized.
Mike has lot of experience, Great information and fun.
Our flight seem shorter and not has high as others.
Would recommend using them.
Response from Host, Sep 2026
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us! We’re glad to hear you had a great time, enjoyed our crew, and appreciated Mike’s knowledge and expertise. We’re sorry that the flight duration and altitude did not meet your expectations, as these can vary depending on weather conditions and what is safest for the day, and we truly appreciate your understanding. We hope you’ll give us another opportunity to provide you with an even more memorable experience in the sky!
The team at Rainbow Ryders are kind & professional. My first ride was canceled due to the wind & they were very apologetic which was not necessary. They cannot control the wind. We laughed & joked back to the office & I was able to rebook for today. It was a beautiful experience!! Our pilot Steve was AWESOME!! Thanks for helping me check a bucket list item!!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad you were able to reschedule and finally experience your bucket list flight. Safety is always our top priority, and we truly appreciate your understanding when weather conditions don't cooperate. It's great to hear you enjoyed the experience and that Steve made your flight so memorable. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to him. Thank you for choosing Rainbow Ryders, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure someday!
Omg it brought a tear to my eye was unbelievable!! The views the high the landing everything from start to finish was amazing!!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled to hear your flight was such an emotional and unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking views to the peaceful ride and smooth landing, we're so glad every part of your adventure exceeded your expectations. Thank you for choosing Rainbow Ryders, and we hope to share the skies with you again soon!
The early morning tour experienced the sunrise and then expansive views of Albuquerque and the surrounding landscapes. We had a terrific time that ended with a safe landing and mimosas.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your lovely review! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the sunrise, the beautiful views of Albuquerque, and a smooth landing to finish it all off with mimosas. We truly appreciate you flying with us and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience!
I was nervous when I booked this experience, but I knew I really wanted to do it. It was amazing. So beautiful and peaceful. Everything was organized from start to finish. Our pilot, Kris, and his crew were friendly and professional. I asked a lot of questions and all were answered with no issues. I would definitely do this again. Do it! You won't regret it.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are so glad you took the leap and that your experience ended up being so beautiful, peaceful, and memorable. We will be sure to share your kind words with Kris and his crew, and they will be thrilled to hear your feedback. We truly appreciate you flying with us and hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!
Very professional staff who are very knowledgeable about ballooning. Enjoyable and exciting experience.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We are so glad you had an enjoyable and exciting experience and that our team’s professionalism and knowledge stood out to you. We truly appreciate you flying with us and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure!
Gregg, Nick and Nicole were outstanding . Champagne toast symbolism was special. The view and flight plan was longer than expected and well worth it!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! We are thrilled to hear you had such a great experience and enjoyed the champagne toast and beautiful views. We will be sure to share your wonderful feedback with Gregg, Nick, and Nicole. We truly appreciate you flying with us and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure!
This was a bucket list item for me… I dragged some of my family along for the ride, and we all enjoyed it. Troy was our pilot/driver/bar tender and everything else all wrapped into one! He was amazing, super experienced, very friendly and he had the best stories! We helped with the holding of the balloon for the initial filling of it. I would also love to give a huge shoutout to one of his crew members, I wish I would’ve gotten his name, but in the midst of everything I forgot to get it. We lovingly referred to him as “Wong”- Dr. Strange sidekick (he looks like the actor Benedict Wong). He was amazing with me, I am short with zero upper body strength. I was having a difficult time getting out of the basket.. it could’ve been completely embarrassing… but he brought over 2 step stools and guided me on how to get out and had me use him as support.. so patient, calm and friendly! I will forever remember him! Rainbow Ryder peeps if you read this… give that man a raise!! I will come back thanks to him! We flew on Sunday 5/31/26 with Troy B. and this guy was one of his crew guys! For all who are wondering, you have to climb in and out of the basket using a few holes/openings on the side as steps. There are no doors! The height of the basket is about 3ft or so.. On the way in to the basket, you have to drop down and on the way out, you have to pull yourself out of it.. last item, don’t forget to tip your flight peeps! They do an amazing job.. we had 3 peeps in our flight crew! Tip them ALL!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We truly appreciate your recommendation and are so happy we could be part of such a special day for you and your family. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable flight!
No worries, easy experience. Pilot was very friendly and gave us lots of details of the ballooning experience. Was a very smooth ride that felt like floating. Loved Alfred.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We're so glad you had an easy and enjoyable experience and that Alfred helped make your flight memorable with his friendly personality and insight into the world of ballooning. It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed the smooth, floating sensation of the ride, and we’ll be sure to share your compliments with Alfred!
The experience of a lifetime. Greg and his crew were wonderful people and worked hard together. The best team to prep and fly the hot air balloon. Another bucket list done.
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so happy to hear this was a true bucket-list experience and that Greg and his crew made it so memorable. It means a lot to know you noticed their teamwork and dedication in preparing and flying the balloon. We appreciate you choosing to fly with us and hope to welcome you back for another adventure someday!
Trip was canceled due to weather conditions (too windy). That was not determined until we left the building. It cost me over $50 an Uber fares to get to their facility and back which were non-reimbursable, of course.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for your feedback. We understand how disappointing it can be to have a flight canceled, especially after making travel arrangements. While weather cancellations are never ideal, they are made solely with the safety of our guests and crew in mind. We would love the opportunity to welcome you back on a day with more favorable flying conditions so you can experience the adventure safely and as it was meant to be enjoyed.
What an amazing experience!! Our pilot was great and the ride was smooth and the views were beautiful! Fun thing to do while visiting Albuquerque. Hope to do it again one day!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We’re so happy to hear you had an amazing, smooth flight and got to enjoy those beautiful Albuquerque views. It’s great knowing your pilot helped make the experience special, and we’d love to have you back up in the skies with us again someday!
The pilot Alfred was great- explained sites- controlled the ballon and the landing. Very nice and personal- I recommend Alfred
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that Alfred made your flight enjoyable with his knowledge, skill, and personable approach. We'll be sure to share your compliments with him, and we appreciate your recommendation!
Greg, Frank, Moses, and Jesus were our flight crew, and they made the entire experience incredible from start to finish. The flight itself was beautiful, and we loved learning more about how the balloon works, how it’s navigated, and the skill involved in flying it—all while taking in the amazing views.
The landing was soft and smooth, and the crew was organized, efficient, and professional during both launch and pack-up after the flight. You can tell they really know what they’re doing and enjoy sharing the experience with others. We would absolutely recommend this ballooning experience and this crew to anyone considering a hot air balloon ride.
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that Greg, Frank, Moses, and Jesus made your experience so memorable and that you enjoyed learning about the art and science of ballooning while taking in the beautiful views. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable flight in the future!
Amazing, peaceful, and serencr experience floating among the clouds! Highly recommend! Kris was a great guide.
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear you had such an amazing, peaceful, and serene experience floating among the clouds. There's truly nothing quite like the beauty and tranquility of a balloon flight. We're also glad Kris helped make your adventure special, and we'll be sure to share your kind words with him. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to see you again for another unforgettable flight!
What an incredible experience! It's amazingly calm up in the sky, and Steven was a fantastic guide!!
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so happy to hear you had such an incredible experience and were able to enjoy the peaceful calm of floating through the sky. Steven will be thrilled to hear your kind words — he loves helping create memorable flights for our guests. We truly appreciate you flying with us and hope to see you again for another adventure soon!
I booked a hot air ballon ride which got canceled due to wind. Refunded came through quickly without any issues
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you for your understanding and for taking the time to leave a review. Safety is always our top priority, so while weather cancellations can be disappointing, we’re glad to hear the refund process was quick and hassle-free for you. We truly appreciate your support and hope to have the chance to welcome you on a future flight with better conditions!
Alfred was amazing!! Very smooth flight & great experience!! It was. Our first time in a balloon and he explained everything well.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re thrilled to hear that Alfred made your first balloon experience smooth, informative, and enjoyable.
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another amazing flight in the future!
Mike H was great. Thank you for your service. Great conversationalist, making jokes, explaining how to pilot an air balloon and history behind it.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your kind review. We’re glad to hear that Mike H. made your experience enjoyable with his knowledge, humor, and insights into ballooning.
We appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another memorable flight in the future.
Fantastic experience. Our pilot Alfred was wonderful. Really passionate about what he does and dipped us into the Rio grande which was super cool. Such a memorable experience.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that Alfred made your experience so memorable and that you enjoyed the unique Rio Grande dip.
We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable flight in the future.
Wonderful way to see New Mexico!
Rainbow Ryder pilot and crew were friendly, knowledgeable and professional. Highly recommend!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review. We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed such a beautiful view of New Mexico and that our pilot and crew made your experience friendly, knowledgeable, and professional.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another memorable flight in the future.
Such an amazing experience. It was so peaceful and quiet. Stephen was a great pilot! This is definitely a must do when in Albuquerque.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your kind review. We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the peaceful and quiet experience, and that Stephen made your flight even more enjoyable.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable flight in the future.
Everything went well. Except that they charge extra for the rio grande experience and that didn’t happen. Also, in the description it said only max of 4 persons where going to be in the basket and we ended up being 7 including the pilot. Everyone was so close to each other like sardines. We couldn’t even turn to see different angles or sides of the basket.
Great balloon ride. Anthony our pilot was professional, knowledgeable, and friendly. I went with my 80 year old dad and 10 year old son. The crew let my sone set up and takedown and pack up the balloon which was a highlight for him. Mimosas and snacks after the beautiful sunrise flight was the perfect ending to the morning. Highly recommend this experience.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your wonderful review. We’re thrilled to hear that Anthony and the crew made your sunrise flight so special and that your son enjoyed helping with the balloon setup and takedown.
We’re glad the mimosas and snacks were a perfect ending to your morning, and we truly appreciate your recommendation. We hope to welcome you and your family back for another memorable flight!
Fun, comfortable and exciting surprise for my wife’s 70th. ! Part of the fun was the number of hot air balloons launched together with ours. Citywide about 30+ in air same time made it more interesting and ability to get photo’s. Surprised how many people flew that day. Great experienced pilot.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you for your review. We’re thrilled to hear that your wife’s 70th birthday flight was such a fun and memorable experience, and that you enjoyed seeing so many balloons in the sky.
We’re glad our pilot contributed to a safe and enjoyable flight, and we hope to welcome you both back for another unforgettable adventure!
Best time ever! As a very nervous solo traveler Mike kept me close and made me feel super comfortable. YOLO
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$179.55
per personWas $189.00(-5%)
up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
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